Episode 156: Getting Started with Outcomes Measurement for Foundations

Many foundations would like to have a more defined measurement process around their grantmaking but aren’t sure where to start. Today’s episode focuses on that process: how to get started, how to iterate through the process, and how to report on your foundation’s accomplishments.

 

In an excerpt from a Blackbaud webinar, you’ll hear from Veronica Dickson of the FMH Foundation and Jessica Tudyk of the Mary E. Bivens Foundation about starting with the mission statement, talking to your board, and tracking data. To view the entire webinar, click on the link the Resources section below.

 

Topics Discussed in This Episode:

• Starting with the mission statement
• Looking at the written donor intent and foundation’s history of giving
• Talking to the board about strategic planning
• Making sure you and your grantees understand your lingo
• Meeting nonprofits where they are
• The If/Then tree
• Which data is needed
• How to track data
• Keeping track of data changes

 

 

Resources:

Veronica Dickson

Jessica Tudyk

Webinar: "Measuring for Success: The Good, The Helpful and the Impactful"

Blackbaud Foundation Solutions Resource Hub

 

Quotes: 

“Our foundation is very big on follow up and making sure that the money went where it should have gone and for the purpose that it was intended.” –Veronica Dickson

“I think that’s really good advice with any foundation. Where do you start? Keep the main thing the main thing. Look at your mission statement.” –Veronica Dickson

“I that it’s important to remember that no two processes are going to look identical, they’re not going to look the same.” –Jessica Tudyk